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wayback-oldest

Identify the oldest Wayback Machine capture for a URL using oldest-newest.ts script with --oldest-only option.

3|Updated Jan 17, 2026
Search Tags:#archive#script#wayback#cdx#url-history#oldest
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Mearman/marketplace --skill wayback-oldest
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: wayback-oldest
Source: https://github.com/Mearman/marketplace/tree/main/plugins/wayback/skills/wayback-oldest
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Mearman/marketplace --skill wayback-oldest

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Identify the earliest archived snapshot for a URL.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Find the oldest Wayback Machine capture for a given URL.
  • Output options include compact dates or full archive URLs, with JSON support.
  • Use for archival verification, historical research, and URL provenance checks.

Quick Start

Run the oldest-newest.ts script with your target URL to fetch the oldest capture.

Frequently Asked Questions about wayback-oldest

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I find the oldest Wayback Machine snapshot for a specific URL?▼

You can find the oldest Wayback Machine snapshot for a URL by running the oldest-newest.ts script with the --oldest-only flag. This fetches the earliest archived capture available for your target link.

What is the best way to retrieve the earliest archive capture of a website?▼

The best way to retrieve the earliest archive capture is using a script that queries the Wayback CDX API. This approach directly isolates the first recorded snapshot for URL provenance checks without manually sorting through history.

Can I get Wayback URL history output in JSON format?▼

Yes, you can get Wayback URL history output in JSON format by passing the --json flag to the script. This allows you to structurally integrate the oldest snapshot data into automated archival verification workflows.

How do I return full archive URLs instead of just dates for Wayback captures?▼

To return full archive URLs instead of compact dates for Wayback captures, use the --full option with the script. This provides direct links to the oldest snapshot for immediate access and historical comparison.

Do I need to clear the cache when checking the oldest Wayback snapshot?▼

You do not need to clear the cache by default, but you can use the --no-cache option when checking the oldest Wayback snapshot. This ensures you fetch real-time CDX index data instead of potentially outdated stored results.

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